Is this bad grammar?

Question

I am writing a letter of interest for freelance work at a newspaper. Many cover letter examples have statements like: "I think my knowledge of the town makes me a good fit for the paper." Even though I am a journalist, my grammar isn't bulletproof. So I am wondering if "makes me a good fit for" is a correct statement. Suggestions?

Answer 1

That is good. You could maybe say something like, "makes me a great canidate for the job." Good luck!

Answer 2

"I think my knowledge of the town makes me a good fit for the paper." Even though I am a journalist, my grammar isn't bulletproof. So I am wondering if "makes me a good fit for"

Yes, your statement has to be corrected, " I think THAT my knowledge of the town makes me fit ENOUGH for the paper" You could still improve on mine actually. "fit enough" use something a little more catchy, like capable, competent.

Answer 3

Your grammar is correct. However, if it were me, I would not use that sentence as it is.

This sounds like you are trying to convince the paper to let you write for them. If that is true, never say, "I think". Instead make it a concrete statement.

I have always been a believer that if you say "If I come to work for you..." rather than "WHEN I come to work for you..." the employer will view you as less-confident and you might not get the job. Always use "I will" "I am" "I know" statements rather than "I might" "I could" "I think" statements.

Another tip, is to use more advanced words instead of "makes" and "good fit". You want to show them that you are a "good fit" for them, so make sure you use the advanced words they are looking for.

I would use something like, "Due to my extensive knowledge of the town, and its history, I am the ideal candidate for this paper."

Then end with an "I will" Statement, like:

"Once awarded this position, I will be a valuable contributor to the NEWSPAPERNAME." and/or " I look forward to writing my premiere article for you!"


Good Luck!

Answer 4

"A good fit for" is colloquial, usually try to avoid colloquials in written language. I'm not sure the level of professionalism at the paper. If a research journal, you would want to revise. But a home town paper might like the more informal approach. You can revise if you are concerned. I've seen some good revision suggestions here.

Answer 5

Your sentence, "I think my knowledge of the town makes me a good fit for the paper," is grammatically correct.

Answer 6

'I think', is an unsure statement; say,' I am a good fit forthis because my knowlege is...."; or my knowledge of this topic make sme a good fit for this paper. You don't need to say I think its repetetive. Being a journalist makes you a fit but why are you a good fit?

Answer 7

How about "Worthy contributor to"

"I think my knowledge of the town makes me a worthy contributor to the paper"

I'm sure there are other ways but this might help.

Answer 8

I think that it is awkward. I wouldn't include it in my cover letter. I would say something like, "I believe that my skills are complementary to this position." The original sentence sounds too simple. Spice it up a bit!

Answer 9

that sounds a bit weird- instead of 'good fit' put:

'ideal' (if you're really self-assured)
'suitable person' (fairly non-pushy), 'i think my work would fit nicely in your paper' (self-assured, sounds quite quaint)
'I think that my thorough knowledge of the town will persuade you to use my work' (pushy, proper journalist)

Answer 10

well...it is, but candidate does sound better.

and don't EVER say "I think"...makes you sound unsure.

how about- "My knowledge of the town makes me an adequate candidate for this paper."

:)